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This study provides an in-depth analysis of the role of EU Cohesion Policy in supporting SMEs operating in critical technology areas, with a particular focus on biotechnology, artificial intelligence, advanced connectivity, and energy technologies. It examines both performance effects and implementation challenges using econometric analysis and qualitative case studies. Policy recommendations are provided to strengthen support under a post-2027 Cohesion Policy framework, focusing also on inputs for ...

This study provides an in-depth analysis of the role of EU Cohesion Policy in supporting SMEs operating in critical technology areas, with a particular focus on biotechnology, artificial intelligence, advanced connectivity, and energy technologies. It examines both performance effects and implementation challenges using econometric analysis and qualitative case studies. Policy recommendations are provided to strengthen support under a post-2027 Cohesion Policy framework, focusing also on inputs for ...

Since 1 January 2024, the United Kingdom (UK) has been associated to Horizon Europe, with almost 6 000 UK Horizon projects as of 9 January 2026. The legislative proposals for Horizon Europe (2028-2034) and the Euratom training programme (2028-2032) represent a timely opportunity to discuss the future of bilateral EU-UK cooperation in research and innovation, including in the field of nuclear science and technologies.

Academic freedom is widely recognised as a fundamental value of contemporary higher education and research, and as a prerequisite for well-functioning democratic societies. However, in recent years, major concerns have been expressed by various stakeholders about the state of academic freedom in the European Union. The European Parliament annual Academic Freedom Monitor aims to improve the promotion and protection of academic freedom in the EU. The 2025 edition is organised in two parts. The first ...

X-ray free electron lasers (XFELs) are particle accelerators that create pulses of light of extremely short duration, similar to that of some lasers used in eye surgery. Combined with the X-ray energy-domain, they enable a close examination of the shortest processes in nature – such as the way atoms move during a chemical reaction. Although Europe hosts some of the world-leading XFELs, the next generation may allow scientists to trace the motion of electrons in its entirety. This could make XFELs ...

As part of its sectoral proposals under the EU's long-term budget for 2028-2034, the European Commission presented a proposal for a Council regulation establishing the Euratom research and training programme for the period 2028-2032, complementing Horizon Europe. The Euratom research and training programme operates in scientific and technical areas covered by the Treaty establishing the European Atomic Energy Community. According to the Commission, in 2023, nuclear energy generated electricity in ...

Innovation policy helps turn research into new products and services that create jobs, strengthen the EU’s global competitiveness and improve people’s quality of life. The EU supports innovation through funding programmes such as Horizon Europe (EUR 93.4 billion for 2021–2027), which backs research and business development. Recent initiatives include the New European Innovation Agenda (2022), the Net-Zero Industry Act to boost clean technology manufacturing, and the Competitiveness Compass (2025) ...

Digital service platforms and emerging technologies, such as artificial intelligence, continue to reshape how Europe works, communicates, shops and learns. Since 2024, the EU has shifted from agenda-setting to implementation, with new rules on platforms, data, digital identity, AI and cybersecurity driving secure digital spaces, fair competition and digital sovereignty aligned with the green transition.

Recent shocks, such as the COVID-19 pandemic and the war in Ukraine, have not only exposed the vulnerabilities of the EU single market but have also highlighted its centrality for EU competitiveness. Today, the digital single market plays a transformative role: it boosts productivity and consumer welfare through e-commerce and e-government, while EU rules on data, platforms, AI and cybersecurity underpin trust and resilience. Key legislation (Digital Services Act, Digital Markets Act, eIDAS 2.0, ...

The importance of information and communication technologies (ICTs), as well as data services, continues to grow in importance for both consumers and businesses. With the surge in on-demand content and 4G/5G growth, the EU has introduced a telecommunications regulatory framework. This encompasses all types of telecommunications, including broadcasting. Research indicates that telecommunications services, network equipment, content and applications contribute up to EUR 1 trillion to the EU’s GDP annually ...